In this compelling first volume in the Blackwell Introductions to Literature series, Roy Flannagan, editor of The Milton Quarterly, provides a readable and uncluttered critical account of a complicated and sophisticated author, and his poetry and prose.

Puts John Milton under the microscope, using the still-evolving critical perspectives of the last fifty years.

Looks at Milton’s life, and the cultural background to his work, as well as examining his writing.

Considers how and why Milton’s work has endured the centuries to educate, entertain and intrigue so many generations of readers.

Ideal for the reader falling in love with Milton’s poetry and prose, who longs to know more about what people think about the poetry, the man or the historical context.